July 22, 1949 – November 10, 2024
Stephen Michael Fairchild passed away on November 10th, 2024, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years, Marie Opal (Wernette), his son Steven Zachary Fairchild (Jenny) of Centreville, Virginia, his daughter Katie Marie Miller (Luke) of Boise, Idaho, and nine cherished grandchildren.
Stephen was born in Blackfoot, Idaho, on July 22nd, 1949 to Clarence and Elizabeth (Betty) Fairchild. It was in Blackfoot where he spent his formative years and met the love of his life, Marie Wernette. Following four years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Stephen pursued his lifelong passion for animal care, earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Washington State University in 1979. Stephen then began working at the Animal Health Clinic in Blackfoot, Idaho, followed by starting his own veterinary practice in Idaho Falls. He ultimately became the proud owner of Alta Animal Hospital in Pocatello, Idaho, before retiring in 2012.
Beyond his professional life, Stephen was a man of many talents and passions. He took pride in tackling home projects, brewing his signature Weinsteins Cellar wines, and, most importantly, raising his family and cherishing time with his grandchildren. Stephen had an enduring love for the outdoors, embracing adventures like camping, hunting, rafting, golfing, and wintering in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Yet, of all his hobbies, fishing held a special place in his heart. He spent countless hours in pursuit of finned water dwellerslikely catching more fish than stars in the sky above him. Above all, Stephen found joy in sharing these experiences with his friends and family. He lived life to its fullest and will be profoundly missed.
A celebration of life for Stephen is being planned for the summer of 2025 in Pocatello.